While it is not willing to discuss specific figures, Honda claims the naturally-aspirated 2.0-liter will be the most powerful base engine ever offered in a Civic.

This engine will be offered with either six-speed manual or CVT automatic transmissions.

Higher-level models will get a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, with direct injection.

This is the first time a turbocharged engine has been offered in a U.S. Civic outside the sporty Si model, according to Honda.

The Si will rejoin the lineup at some future date, along with a version of the more hardcore Civic Type-R previously offered only outside the U.S.

A CVT will be mandatory for buyers choosing the 1.5-liter turbocharged engine.

Honda did not disclose fuel-economy figures either, but says it is aiming for EPA highway ratings "in excess of 40 mpg."

The company previously said it is discontinuing the Civic Hybrid--which is currently rated at 45 mpg combined (44 mpg city, 47 mpg highway)--in part because efficiency gains by non-hybrid Civic models will make it unnecessary.